On its way to 'being back,' USC needs to stick to current blueprint

There is a lot to like about how USC is addressing multiple areas of the program as of late. Although it is year four for coach Lincoln Riley in Los Angeles, it almost does feel as if there is something of a brand new start, a reset in Troy. So far, this has come up most pronounced in recruiting. While there is a lot of work that must continue on that front as well, it is impossible to ignore and not acknowledge how well the Trojans have done at the high school level this offseason.

That can be discussed and appreciated while also recognizing that USC is still far from 'being USC.' Set aside the fact that that distinction was earned on the field back in the day and will only be truly verified through silverware. The Trojans do not have the fear or intimidation factor anymore.

Even with all of the latest recruiting wins, for example, many fan bases are finding it far too easy to poke holes and disregard what USC is doing on that front. Despite the bulk of commitments being ranked as four-star prospects, many continue to be unimpressed with the way the Trojans have increased their recruiting efforts.

This lack of respect stems from years of USC falling short during games and no longer being a team that strikes fear into the opposing sideline. For many, the Trojans are seen only as a has-been. Even the top 2026 and 2027 classes are viewed as a mirage, leaving many completely unimpressed.

If, on the other hand, USC were coming off four or five consecutive double-digit winning seasons, then the same recruiting classes would undoubtedly be viewed as the Trojans 'getting their guys' or the type of USC-caliber players.

Reality of present-day USC

What is nice, however, is that even for those who are choosing to hold on to their most recent memory of what USC has brought to the table in recent years, the Trojans approach is still working nonetheless.

USC has secured the commitments of those players they have felt good about for a long time and who they believe will be able to make the winning difference. Calls of USC 'being back' are too premature at this point, but there are active steps being taken in the right direction.